Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh 1st T20I 2025 – Full Match Preview, Squad & Streaming Guide

The highly anticipated opening clash of the Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh T20I series takes place on 10 July 2025 at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy. With both teams seeking momentum in the trio of matches, here’s your in-depth guide—featuring key players, match predictions, and streaming options to ensure you’re game-ready.

Match & Series Overview

After facing off in Tests and ODIs, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh shift focus to short-form cricket. The 1st T20I is set for a 7 PM IST / 5:30 PM BST start, with both teams leveling the playing field at one win apiece across other formats. Sri Lanka leads 11–6 in T20I head-to-head and swept Bangladesh in their last bilateral T20 series at home.

Squads & Selection Insight

Sri Lanka (likely XI)

• Openers: Pathum Nissanka and Lasith Croospulle — aggressive hitters with experience in the Lanka Premier League and 2023 debut exposure.
   
• Middle-order: Janith Liyanage brings power, while Wanindu Hasaranga offers finishing spin, likely supported by Dhananjaya de Silva.
   
• All-rounders: Dhananjaya—cross-format experience; Charith Asalanka adds middle-order stability.
   
• Bowlers: Hasaranga leads the spin attack; pace backed by Asitha Fernando or other expatriates aiming to exploit Kandy's bounce.
   

Bangladesh (likely XI)

• Openers: Mohammad Naim and Parvez Hossain Emon.
   
• Middle-order: Litton Das and Tanzid Hasan anchoring with potential flares.
   
• Death bowlers/spinners: Mahedi Hasan Miraz, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, plus Rishad Hossain—Bangladesh’s record T20 World Cup wicket-taker in 2024—equipped to deliver middle-overs damage.
   
• Pace: Mohammad Saifuddin handles new ball duties; Tanzid Hasan as backup.
   

Key Battles to Watch

1. SL Openers vs BD Pace: Can Naim and Emon handle Nissanka’s pace and bounce-based bowling?
    
2. Spin duel mid-overs: Wanindu vs Miraz—both all-rounders will vie for middle-over control.
    
3. Death overs: Hasaranga’s leg-spin against Bangladesh’s finishing masters.
    
4. Powerplay intensities: Whether Sri Lanka can leverage pacers to stifle Bangladesh’s strong hitting top-order.
    

Streaming & Broadcasting Guide

• Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal – tapmad: high-definition streaming with local commentary and flexible packages.
   
• India – Sony LIV and FanCode covering entire tour
   
• UK & Ireland – Sky Sports/BT Sport via Now TV and Sky Go.
   
• USA & Canada – Willow TV, Sling TV bundles supported by ESPN+.
   
• Australia/NZ – Fox Cricket, Kayo Sports, ESPN Australia.
   
• Africa (sub-Saharan) – SuperSport via DStv.
   
• Global fans – ICC.tv now includes select T20 content VPN suggested for geo-blocked access tools
   

Match Predictions & Player Watchlist

Sri Lanka to shine: Home advantage gives them the edge. Nissanka, Hasaranga, and Dhananjaya could dominate.

Bangladesh’s X-factors: Bangladesh’s spin prowess and middle-order finishing ability—especially Rishad Hossain and Miraz—pose serious threats.

Expect a top-order collapse from one side and a high-scoring finish with both teams nearing 170+ totals.

Pre-match Checklist

• Install your regional or VPN-enabled streaming apps.
   
• Final squads and toss updates are confirmed pre-game; adjust fantasy picks accordingly.
   
• Monitor pitch and weather — Kandy usually supports spin mid-match, but wipeouts can occur under lights.